Interior Design Expert Shares Common Bathroom Renovation Pitfalls

Renovating a bathroom, a space where function often takes precedence over form, can be costly, with Britons willing to spend up to £4,300 on a full renovation, though costs can exceed £5,000. Interior design experts are highlighting common mistakes homeowners make during these projects, which can detract from both the room's functionality and its potential resale value.

Matt Smith-Wood, an interior designer and finalist on BBC's Interior Design Masters, emphasizes that bathrooms significantly impact wellbeing, serving as a place for starting the day, unwinding, and escaping daily pressures. Despite this, it's often overlooked in interior design considerations.

Spatial Planning

One significant error is poor spatial planning. While leaving an existing layout might seem easier, experts advise carefully considering the room's overall flow. The needs of a family versus a single individual will dictate different design choices. A cramped or impractical layout can make even a beautifully designed bathroom feel unconsidered. Ensuring adequate space between fixtures such as the shower, bath, sink, and toilet is crucial for comfort and ease of movement. When functionality becomes the primary focus over aesthetics due to a lack of planning, professional designers and plumbers can help rethink the room's layout.

Lighting and Texture

Lighting is another frequently overlooked aspect. Harsh or overly bright lighting can create an unwelcoming, clinical feel. Experts recommend mood lighting, similar to what is prioritized in bedrooms, to foster a calm and atmospheric sanctuary. Soft lighting around the mirror is key for clear, non-jarring illumination, while subtle, moodier lighting in shower areas can create a spa-like experience and make the entire space feel cohesive and relaxing.

Creating an inviting atmosphere also hinges on texture. Prioritizing texture through tiles, flooring, vanity units, or softer elements like a cushioned chair or a cobblestone-style shower floor can have a calming effect. Texture grounds the space, adds depth, and makes a bathroom feel more intentional and less utilitarian, engaging the senses for a room used daily.

Details and Budgeting

Homeowners often neglect smaller details amidst the complexity of renovations, according to Emily Robertson, a bathroom expert at Mira. While paint color or shower type might be considered, finishes and materials for fixtures are frequently overlooked. Fixtures come in various finishes beyond basic chrome, including matte and gloss options, allowing for diverse styles.

Unrealistic expectations about costs are also common. A basic refresh, keeping the existing layout, might cost around £5,000. However, a full remodel can range from £7,500 to £15,000, depending on design choices. Experts advise allocating an additional 10 to 15 percent of the budget for unexpected costs. Investing in high-quality staples like the shower, plumbing, ventilation, and electrical work is recommended, as these are more costly to correct if poorly installed or chosen, compared to easily changeable items like towels or paint.